Is it a cold or the flu?
The flu outbreak this season continues to grow. Good hygiene (washing your hands often and not touching your eyes, nose, and mouth) can help protect you. But, for added benefit, it’s not too late to get your annual flu shot.
How can you determine if you have a cold or flu? This is very important information, especially if you are in a high-risk group. High-risk groups are more likely to experience complications from the flu. These groups include women who are pregnant and people who have a chronic condition. Heart disease, a weak immune system, asthma, COPD, and diabetes are some of the most common chronic conditions.
Check out these comparisons of the cold and flu, to help evaluate if you or a loved one have a cold or flu. Know your symptoms, and always contact your health care provider when you have concerns or questions about your health.
|
SYMPTOM |
COLD |
FLU |
|
Fever |
rare, mild (>100) |
almost always high (>100 lasts 3–4 days) |
|
Headache |
rare |
common |
|
General Aches/Pains |
slight |
usual; often severe |
|
Onset |
gradual over a few days |
rapid onset |
|
Stuffy nose |
common |
rare |
|
Runny nose |
common |
common |
|
Sore throat |
common |
Sometimes |
|
Cough |
mild to moderate (wet) |
common — can be severe (dry) |
Remember that both colds and flu can have complications, so seek medical help as needed. The basic treatment for a cold or the flu is fluids, rest, and treating your symptoms with pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
And if it’s the flu, stay home until you are fever-free for 24 hours and you are starting to feel better. That’s healthier for you and will help you avoid spreading the flu to others.
Note: UPMC Health Plan members can download their Flu Shot reimbursement form here or search for a doctor here.
